New Delhi, Sept. 21 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wished the nation on the occasion of Mahalaya.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Wishing you all Shubho Mahalaya! As the sacred days of Durga Puja draw near, may our lives be filled with light and purpose. May the divine blessings of Maa Durga bring unwavering strength, lasting joy and wonderful health."

Mahalaya is celebrated at the end of the month of Shradh (as per the Hindu lunar calendar) or Pitru Paksha, 16 days during which Hindus pay homage to their ancestors. Amavasya falls every month, but the Purattasi Mahalaya Ammavasai holds a special significance for the devotees.

On the occasion, a large number of devotees gathered in West Bengal's Kolkata for a holy dip in the ...